Alberta Transportation is anticipating a partial re-opening of the secondary Highway 616 overpass west of Millet by Feb. 15, weather permitting, according to a Government of Alberta press statement.
A single alternating lane of traffic controlled by stop lights will be implemented, and the speed across the bridge will be restricted to 50km/hr.
The bridge over Highway 2 was closed Jan. 17 following a collision and fire when a semi-truck hauling milk collided with bridge’s pillars.
Initial rumors were it would be three to four years before the overpass would be repaired, but Alberta Transportation is now saying it believes the repairs could be finished by fall of this year.
The truck caused substantial damage to the bridge; an initial detailed inspection was completed before the case was passed to independent engineer for further review and assessment at the beginning of February.
The decision to allow a single, alternating lane of traffic at a reduced speed comes from the assessment.
amelia.naismith@pipestoneflyer.ca
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